So I got a quick test ride in today. My sales dude totally came through and got one put into their demo program. I rode it in touring mode, the same mode I ride in mostly in my M821. From the moment I pulled out of the parking lot I could tell there were some immediate differences that I like and dislike.
Likes:
*The view! It's nice seeing over cars for once.
*Ergos! The entire reason why I'm here in this position. It felt so nice to have the balls of my feet on the pegs without having any movement or position impeded on by the rear sets. I Immediately liked the relaxed angles everywhere. I also showed up at the dealership on the way home from riding the trails on my WR. It felt like riding a very fast version of that.
*Turn-in. Wow.. Just think and it goes. You guys sure are right about that one.
Dislikes:
*The seat. It was hard and felt my sit bones touch with every bump. (DP seat swap, right?)
*Acceleration. It didn't feel as quick as my M821. I also have a Termi slip on with flash so that might be what makes the difference.
*Suspension. Took a standard HM for a ride. I could feel the exact same stiffness in suspension as my M821. Not to be dismissed, just thought I would feel more plushness or travel.
Next Step:
Research! I'll be doing a lot more of that. Looks like if it's feasible, I'll be making my way towards the HM SP and add some HS flavor to make it more comfortable. I'm also waiting on a "ball park" figure for the value of my M821 for trade. That will totally sway which way I go. It would be foolish to throw away too much cash in this transaction.
